DCF filing Ottawa, Canada

[ParkerJames2009 0]

I am seeking instructions from those who have already taken this path. I am finding the path a little overwhelming and cannot seem to connect the dots.

Is there a checklist anyone has created which they would not mind sharing with me? Each time I research the offical sites I am taken down another road of possibilities and different forms to fill out all together. Maybe cause its I'm not knowledgeable enough.

I have my Canadian PR card and SIN # and live in Canada. My goal is to return to the USA with my Canadian husband.

I was researching the I-130 but after emailing Ottawa...they sent me a link to http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/immigrant...types_1315.html and now I am unsure if we should file a K-3 instead.

Can someone tell me if I am filing for a Visa for my Candian husband as I thought Canada was not a Visa issuing country with the USA.

I guess its the terminology throwing me off as well.

I understand there are 3 packets...but what are the processes of each set?

Can my husband begin his medical and fingerprints now, even though there is not a request for these at present time; what is the time expiration on the medical and fingerprints?

Any help is appreciated. I have read and re-read and continue to read....this seems to be the best forum with information but I'm still not getting it. If anyone can offer 'laymans' terms I truly would appreciate all the help you can give in explaining the process for me. So if you're bored and have a moment...please help me out.

A world of thanks,

PJ

Edited January 11, 2010 by ParkerJames2009

[Bobby+Umit 161]

I am seeking instructions from those who have already taken this path. I am finding the path a little overwhelming and cannot seem to connect the dots.

Is there a checklist anyone has created which they would not mind sharing with me? Each time I research the offical sites I am taken down another road of possibilities and different forms to fill out all together. Maybe cause its I'm not knowledgeable enough.

I have my Canadian PR card and SIN # and live in Canada. My goal is to return to the USA with my Canadian husband.

I was researching the I-130 but after emailing Ottawa...they sent me a link to http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/immigrant...types_1315.html and now I am unsure if we should file a K-3 instead.

Can someone tell me if I am filing for a Visa for my Candian husband as I thought Canada was not a Visa issuing country with the USA.

I guess its the terminology throwing me off as well.

I understand there are 3 packets...but what are the processes of each set?

Can my husband begin his medical and fingerprints now, even though there is not a request for these at present time; what is the time expiration on the medical and fingerprints?

Any help is appreciated. I have read and re-read and continue to read....this seems to be the best forum with information but I'm still not getting it. If anyone can offer 'laymans' terms I truly would appreciate all the help you can give in explaining the process for me. So if you're bored and have a moment...please help me out.

A world of thanks,

PJ

Did you read this guide?

[trailmix 77]

Hi and welcome to VJ,

First of all you will want to read the guide at the link Bobby_Umit provided for you, above.

I was researching the I-130 but after emailing Ottawa...they sent me a link to http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/immigrant...types_1315.html and now I am unsure if we should file a K-3 instead.

The K3 is an outdated visa, you should probably just mark it off the list right now. It was put in place in an effort to speed things up - it now takes about the same time as a CR1/IR1 visa. The CR1/IR1 is a superior visa.

Can someone tell me if I am filing for a Visa for my Candian husband as I thought Canada was not a Visa issuing country with the USA.

Yes, you will need to file for a visa for him. While Canadians don't require a visa to visit, they do to immigrate.

I understand there are 3 packets...but what are the processes of each set?

You must have been reading the K visa forums, these 'packet' numbers don't really apply to CR1/IR1 - it will seem clearer after you read the DCF guide at the link provided.

Can my husband begin his medical and fingerprints now, even though there is not a request for these at present time; what is the time expiration on the medical and fingerprints?

It will take around 10 months from start to finish, so it is a bit early for this. You do know he only needs the fingerprint criminal record check if he has a criminal record? Otherwise the name check will suffice and only takes a few days to get, in some places you can get it the same day. As for the medical, you need to wait until you get your interview letter. BTW his interview will be in Montreal, even if you file the initial paperwork in Ottawa.

You may also want to check out the consular page for Canada - it gives details of how you can file the I-130 (initial paperwork):

Preliminary Instructions link

U.S. citizens who reside legally in Canada and who wish to sponsor (petition) their spouse, minor children or parents as immigrants to the United States may start the immigration process by filing an immigrant petition (I-130) at the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate in whose district they reside. Please check for specific I-130 filing requirements and procedures at that consular office by following the internet links below. Note that Toronto requires I-130 filing by mail first, followed by an appearance by appointment only. All consular offices require an in-person appearance by both the petitioner and the beneficiary, some by appointment only

You may want to visit the Canada forum here on VJ, lots of Canada specific information there:

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showforum=93